title: Symmetrical periumbilical extension of a midline incision: a simple technique.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Periumbilical extension of midline incision often results in an irregular, unaesthetic scar with beveled edges.
  
  
  METHODS
  An Allis clamp is placed at the lateral margin of the umbilicus with subsequent medial traction. This straightens the proposed periumbilical incision, resulting in a symmetrical scar.
  
  
  RESULTS
  We have used this technique extensively over the past several years with excellent results and no adverse sequelae.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  This simple technique results in the symmetrically curvilinear, nonbeveled periumbilical extension of a midline incision.
authors.affiliation: Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saint Barnabas Medical Center, Livingston, New Jersey 07039, USA. tdenehy@dnamail.com
authors.forename: T R
authors.initials: TR
authors.lastname: Denehy
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Einstein
authors.forename: C A
authors.initials: CA
authors.lastname: Gregori
authors.forename: J L
authors.initials: JL
authors.lastname: Breen
mesh_terms: D000009:Abdominal Muscles / Q000601:surgery*; D005260:Female; D013509:Gynecologic Surgical Procedures / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D014472:Umbilicus